India’s Playing XI for 3rd ODI Against Australia: Kohli and Rohit Return, Squad Limited to 13 Players

As India gears up for the 3rd ODI against Australia, they welcome back two of their stalwart batsmen, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. With the series already sealed in India’s favor, this match serves as a valuable opportunity for the team to fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming World Cup. However, India faces the challenge of fielding a playing XI with only 13 available players, as several key players have been rested.

Notable absentees

The absentees from the squad for this match include Shubman Gill, Shardul Thakur, Mohammad Shami, and Hardik Pandya, who have been given rest ahead of the World Cup. Additionally, Axar Patel continues to recover from an injury at the NCA.

With limited options at their disposal, India’s playing XI is expected to feature some notable changes. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, India’s premier batsmen, are set to return, providing stability and firepower to the top order. Shreyas Iyer’s century in the previous match indicates his return to form, which is a positive sign for the team.

The wicketkeeping situation remains a concern. KL Rahul, initially handed the wicketkeeping duties, appeared uncomfortable in Mohali and handed them over to Ishan Kishan in the last match. Given India’s plan to use Rahul as the wicketkeeper in the World Cup, he is likely to resume this role in the 3rd ODI.

The batting lineup could see Ishan Kishan partnering with Rohit Sharma at the top, followed by the returning Virat Kohli at No. 3. Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul are expected to slot in at No. 4 and No. 5, respectively. With Hardik Pandya absent, Suryakumar Yadav could fill the No. 6 slot.

In the bowling department, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin are likely to feature. However, there’s a decision to be made regarding the inclusion of Washington Sundar, who has been warming the bench.

With Mohammad Shami rested, India has two pacers remaining apart from Mukesh Kumar, who is not part of the World Cup plans. This situation might lead to Mohammed Siraj replacing Shami. With Ashwin leading the spin attack, India could opt for two pacers and consider adding Kuldeep Yadav back into the mix.

Kuldeep Yadav, who was rested for the first two ODIs, will rejoin the squad in Rajkot along with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. However, the availability of Mukesh Kumar remains uncertain.

In summary, India’s playing XI for the 3rd ODI against Australia is expected to feature a formidable batting lineup with the return of Kohli and Rohit. The team’s bowling combination might include two pacers and Ashwin as the lead spinner. Despite the limited squad, India aims to use this match to assess player performance and fine-tune their strategies before the World Cup.

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